Interswitch Boss, Mitchell Elegbe Rejoins Global Jury for 2026 EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in Monaco
Becomes the Only Entrepreneur to Win in Both Categories Over 40 Years
Mitchell Elegbe, the visionary Founder and Group Managing Director/CEO of Interswitch Group, has once again been re-appointed to the global jury of the prestigious EY World Entrepreneur of the Year (WEOY) Awards. This marks his third consecutive year serving on the esteemed panel, which will culminate in the grand finale held in Monte Carlo, Monaco, in June 2026.
Elegbe’s reappointment signifies a historic milestone, as he becomes the first and only entrepreneur globally to have won in both the emerging and master categories within the same region — West Africa — over a span of 40 years. His continued presence on the jury underscores his stature as a transformative leader in Africa’s digital economy.
A Legacy of Recognition and Impact
Since its inception in 1986, EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year programme has celebrated more than 10,000 entrepreneurs worldwide — recognising their vision, innovation, courage, and leadership in shaping businesses that influence daily life, drive economic vibrancy, and transform communities. The Hall of Fame, established 38 years ago, honours those who have demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial achievement.
In June 2023, Elegbe was inducted into the WEOY Hall of Fame alongside 48 other accomplished entrepreneurs from 45 countries. Notably, he was recognised as the only Black African finalist and inductee, as well as the only individual to have been honoured in both the emerging and master categories in the history of the awards.
A Global Judging Panel of Industry Leaders
For the 2026 edition, Elegbe has been invited by EY’s global leadership to join a distinguished judging committee comprising nine former finalists and regional winners from Australia, Brazil, Germany, Hong Kong & China, Nigeria, Singapore, the UK, and the USA. This diverse panel of accomplished entrepreneurs will evaluate nominations and determine the world’s most innovative and impactful entrepreneurs.
Championing Payment Innovation in Africa
Widely regarded as a pioneer of Nigeria’s payment revolution, Mitchell Elegbe’s contributions have cemented his reputation as a leading figure in African technology and financial services. His work has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s economic development, fostering financial inclusion and digital transformation across the continent.
Recognised through numerous awards — including the Harvard Business School Association (Nigeria) Leadership Award, the African Banker Icon Award, and the CNBC/Forbes All African Business Leader accolade — Elegbe’s influence extends beyond business. He is a Bishop Desmond Tutu Fellow, an Endeavour Entrepreneur, and a Board Member of Endeavour Nigeria.
The Inception and Growth of Interswitch
Founded in 2002 to address Nigeria’s payment challenges, Interswitch has grown into a leading digital commerce and payment infrastructure provider across Africa. The company develops innovative technology solutions that empower individuals, financial institutions, and governments to facilitate seamless and secure transactions, underpinning Africa’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
Elegbe’s leadership has driven the company’s strategic expansion, making Interswitch a recognised name in payment processing and fintech innovation across the continent.
Looking Ahead
As Africa’s digital landscape continues to evolve, Mitchell Elegbe’s ongoing influence on global entrepreneurship remains unparalleled. His role on the EY jury not only highlights his individual achievements but also underscores the growing importance of African innovation on the world stage.